A celebration of world cultures featuring student performances and artwork, craft stations for kids, and food from local restaurants. Annual Globalfest Mass at St. Matthias Church begins at 5pm with performances from PreK and Kindergarten classes. Doors open at 6:00pm at St. Matthias School. Adults $17, kids 3+ $10 (includes food, beverages available for purchase).

Here are a few tips to know before giving blood:

Hydrate

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids on the day of your donation.

Wear Something Comfortable

Wear clothing with sleeves that can easily be rolled up above the elbow.

Maintain a Healthy Level of Iron in Your Diet Before Donating

If possible, include iron-rich foods in your diet, especially in the weeks before your donation.

Bring a List of Medications You Are Taking

We will need to know about any prescription and/or over the counter medications that may be in your system.

Bring an ID

Please bring either your donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification.

Relax!

Blood donation is a simple and very safe procedure so there is nothing to worry about.

Register online

• Programming

• Artistic Curators

• Production History

• Facility Information & History

Crews are easily identifiable as they will be wearing orange vests and will be escorted by staff and vehicles from the Department of Water Management.  This process will continue through the next few weeks. 

…

Weather-Related Warning to Consumers from the City of Chicago
April 20, 2013

Business Affairs & Consumer Protection cautions consumers about home repair scammers that prey on residents who have suffered water damage to their homes or properties as a result of recent severe weather.

Scammers often descend on flood-stricken neighborhoods going door to door to offer clean-up services or home repair services and promise to do the work quickly. They pressure people when they are the most vulnerable into making decisions on the spot. They tend to use cheap inferior materials, and, if they do any work at all, when things fall apart or they do not complete the work … they are gone … they disappear!

When people are overwhelmed they let their guard down. Consumers should be on guard, know their rights and assert their rights.

The City is here to help and suggests the following tips to avoid being scammed (PDF).

• Verify the identification of anyone who contacts you claiming to be from your insurance company or a government agency.
• Be wary of door-to-door solicitors. Legitimate contractors generally do not seek customers in this manner.
• Be patient; resist high pressure tactics such as a “good deal” if you hire on the spot.
• Beware of fraudulent claim adjusters or individuals trying to collect personal
• identification or bank information claiming to be from your insurance company or a
• government agency.

When you hire a contractor, remember to:

• Confirm that the contractor is licensed;
• Verify contractor’s insurance;
• Check the business’ references;
• Seek referrals from friends and neighbors;
• Check the internet to see what previous customers report about this business;
• Get written estimates;
• Do not pay for a job in advance;
• Do not pay in cash.

…

In the event of any emergency, the City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) coordinates efforts with local state and federal agencies to ensure the safety of all residents. In the event of a flood, the City will provide residents important information and keep residents informed, however, it is essential that residents be prepared for any situation.

Scientists predict changing weather patterns and heavy rains and snow could become more frequent in winter and spring. Flooding caused by heavy rains is dangerous and can occur without warning. The City of Chicago advises residents to be prepared and to take precautions against flooding that can occur anytime during the year. Preparedness is key to ensuring life safety and minimizing property loss during a storm or flood.

Before the Flood – Plan Ahead:

• Before or during heavy rain, remove debris, such as leaves, sticks and litter, from sewer structures (i.e., catch basins) in your area to allow the water to enter.
• Determine an emergency meeting location in the event of a flood. Provide your insurance agent, employer, and family members with emergency contact information so that you can be reached before, during, and after a flood.
• Store important documents in a waterproof container, including insurance information, vehicle titles, and receipts and warranties for major appliances.
• Prepare a Go Bag with items you may need if you must leave your home. Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your
• own for at least three days and maybe longer. Include items such as fresh water, food and prescription medications. To learn how to assemble a Go Bag, visit www.AlertChicago.com

Prepare your home or business:

• Elevate the furnace, water heater, electric panel and other electric or valuable items.
• Use temporary barriers such as sandbags to stop floodwater from entering the building. A more permanent barrier may require special permits.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
• Keep an adequate supply of food, flashlights, batteries, and drinking water in case you are trapped inside your home.
• Green space that includes trees, plants, and grass, can absorb or slow down the rush of water in a heavy rain. If possible, plant trees and plants, especially those with deep roots, and avoid paving over green space on your property. If your property has adequate green space, consider disconnecting one or more downspouts to keep water out of the sewers and help prevent basement backups.

Note: the City installs “Rain Blockers” or restrictors in many catch basins in the street to slow the rate at which the water enters the sewer system. While this results in stormwater ponding in the streets, it helps to prevent sewers from backing up into basements. Since Chicago’s sewer system combines stormwater and wastewater (or “sewage”) like many older cities, this mix is what ends up in basements during basement floods.

During the flood:

• DO NOT enter flooded basements where electricity could be present. Call 3-1-1 for assistance.
• Call 9-1-1 if you or anyone you know is in danger. Check on elderly or disabled neighbors to make sure they are well and any appropriate precautions have been taken.
• Call 3-1-1 (TTY: 3-1-1 or 312-744-5000) if your basement or street is flooded.
• Be aware of flash flood areas such as low-level roadways, beneath viaducts, and areas adjacent to waterways.
• Be ready to evacuate. Move essential items from the basement or first floor to upper floors. If time allows bring outside furniture indoors, to upper levels.
• If you must leave your home, do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a stick to test depth.
• Do not try to drive over a flooded road. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and seek an alternate route on foot.

After the flood:

• Check on elderly or disabled neighbors to make sure they are well and any appropriate precautions have been taken.
• DO NOT enter flooded basements where electricity could be present. Call 3-1-1 for assistance.
• If you have flood insurance, contact your agent once your safety is secured. Photograph any damage to your property and save receipts for replacement items or repair work.
• Avoid floodwaters for reasons of health and safety. Do not let children play in the water.
• Avoid down power lines and muddy waters where power lines may have fallen.
• Discard food that may have been contaminated by flooding or as a result of spoilage due to power outage.
• Flood water in basements is likely from a sewer back-up, therefore when cleaning up take precautions to avoid direct contact by wearing waterproof
• gloves and boots, and washing your hands, body and clothing with soap and water afterwards.
• After a flooded basement or other area has been cleared of water, scrub down the area with hot, soapy water, followed by a rinse with a solution of warm water and household bleach (1 cup of bleach per 5 gallons of water).
• Mold is a serious concern. Dry all areas and items quickly and thoroughly to prevent mold growth.

Information and Resources

• Report flooding - City of Chicago 3-1-1 City Services, 312-744-5000
• Tips on cleaning up after a flood - City of Chicago Department of Public Health, 312-747-9884
• Emergency preparedness - City of Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), www.AlertChicago.com, 312-746-9111 & Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), www.fema.gov, 1-800- 621-FEMA
• (1-800-621-3362)
• Flooding, storm water management, sewer and water supply system information - City of Chicago Department of Water Management, 312-744-4420
• Strategies for preparing for climate change – Chicago Climate Action Plan, www.chicagoclimateaction.org

View and print full Alert Chicago Flood Preparedness brochure (PDF)

 …

ComEd Offers Safety Tips on Flooded Basements
Download ComEd Press Release PDF

Storms bring a risk of basement flooding. Because so many people have critical systems and other electronic devices in their basements, there is a higher risk of electrocution when entering a flooded basement to assess damage. ComEd offers the following safety tips for customers with flooded basements.

Customers should call ComEd at 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661) to disconnect power before entering a flooded basement. Never wade into a flooded basement unless all electricity has been disconnected (such as power that supplies sump pumps, freezers, etc.). Water may be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances or cords. If you are experiencing a power outage, do not wade into a flooded basement. Power may be restored while you are in the flooded basement and the motors on appliances may be submerged. Never attempt to turn off power at the breaker box if you must stand in water to do so. Never operate electrical appliances or devices or touch electrical switches, outlets or cords if you are standing in water or are on a wet surface, of if you are wet. Be aware of any electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water.

Public safety is paramount during storms and ComEd encourages the public to remember to take the following precautions:
Never approach a downed power line. If you encounter a downed power line, immediately call ComEd at 1-800-EDISON1 (1-800-334-7661) or access our website at ComEd.com and report the location. Spanish-speaking customers should call 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237). Check on elderly and other sensitive family members and neighbors to ensure their safety, and in the event of an extended outage, assist them in reaching an alternate location.

If customers experience a power outage, they can text OUT to 26633 (COMED) to report their outage and receive restoration information, and can follow the company on Twitter @ComEd or on Facebook at Facebook.com/ComEd to stay up to date on the latest ComEd storm restoration information. ComEd also has an interactive outage map on its website, which allows customers to easily find information on the location and size of outages and get estimated power restoration times. Additionally, ComEd has introduced a mobile app for iPhone and Android® smart phones that gives customers the ability to report power outages and manage their accounts.

More storm safety information can be found on ComEd’s website.

 …

Alert Chicago
This site will guide you through the necessary steps to be prepared for any emergency event, natural or otherwise. In addition to assisting you in creating a basic family plan and assembling the appropriate supplies, it will also give you information about how to alter that plan depending on the specific situation.

Office of Emergency Management
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) prepares Chicago for emergencies, provides assistance to people and institutions for disaster recovery, mitigates the effects of these events, and, whenever possible, prevents emergencies and disasters from occurring or worsening.

City of Chicago BACP Tips to Avoid Post Storm Damage Scams
Contractor-related scams are often common following a major natural disaster. Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to con artists looking to take advantage of vulnerable people.

State of Illinois
IEMA and the NWS developed a Severe Weather Preparedness Guide, which provides information about tornadoes, severe storms, lightning and flooding and recommended actions to take before, during and after each of these weather events. The guide also includes definitions of important weather terms, including watches, warnings and advisories and a list of items.

American Red Cross
The American Red Cross has created this Disaster and Safety Library to assist you in preparing your home, school and workplace in the event of a disaster or emergency. Here you will find fact sheets, preparedness checklists, recovery guides and other helpful information to keep you informed and safe.

UPDATE / 15 May, 2013:

Spring is definitely in bloom at Legion Park! The sight of bright tulips at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Peterson Avenue signal the beginning of some well-deserved warm weather. The construction site that is the backdrop of this welcoming park will soon fade away as the Peterson Sewer Project is in its final stretch, with completion taking place in mid-June. Your patience and cooperation during this trying time has been greatly appreciated. The residents of the area will benefit tremendously from this extensive project as the new pipes should alleviate the issue of basement flooding.

UPDATE / 7 May, 2013:

Due to unforeseen delays, the Peterson Sewer Project construction will continue through mid June, 2013. In an effort to alleviate the congestion that the construction has caused in the area of Bryn Mawr and Kedzie, the stop signs at Virginia and Bryn Mawr and Spaulding and Bryn Mawr have been temporarily removed. If the removal of these signs becomes a traffic hazard, we will consider the option of replacing the signs. These signs will be reinstalled as soon as the construction process ends.

We apologize for the inconvenience this project has caused, but are confident that this $12-million-improvement will help to eliminate the flooding of many basements in the future.

…

UPDATE / 18 April, 2013:

Please be advised that beginning Monday, April 22 or Tuesday, April 23, 2013, traffic control will be put in place on Lincoln Avenue to reduce traffic lanes to the east. This part of the project should take approximately 7 to 12 business days.

UPDATE / 11 March, 2013:

The Peterson Avenue Sewer Project is moving right along with work beginning West of Lincoln Avenue at the bridge during the first two weeks of April, 2013. The intersection will remain open and lane closures will continue. The project is expected to be completed on May 24, 2013.

UPDATE / 5 March, 2013:

The Peterson Avenue Sewer Project is moving right along with work beginning West of Lincoln Avenue at the bridge during the first two weeks of April, 2013. The intersection will remain open and lane closures will continue. The project is expected to be completed on May 24, 2013.

We will continue to update you as more information becomes available.

UPDATE / 8 February, 2013:

Please be aware that the sidewalk on the south side of Peterson Avenue between the bridge over the North Shore Channel and Lincoln Avenue will be closed in order to perform construction work. Pedestrians are asked to use the north sidewalk on Peterson Avenue as an alternate. Attached is a drawing to illustrate where the work zone is and where pedestrians should walk as an alternate. Pedestrians are asked to cross Peterson Avenue at Jersey Avenue and Lincoln Avenue. There are “SIDEWALK CLOSED” signs as well as barricades to alert pedestrians. The sidewalk will be closed for the next few months.

Estimated completion for the entire sewer project is approximately May of 2013. As always, we appreciate your patience and cooperation.

UPDATE / 2 January, 2013:

Please be advised that Peterson Avenue has been reopened to its original traffic configuration of two lanes in both directions from Whipple Avenue/Sacramento Avenue to the east. This has allowed for the CTA #84 bus to resume its normal route.

The completion date for the entire project is still estimated to be in May of 2013. We will keep you informed as more updates become available.
…

UPDATE / 30 November, 2012:

Please be aware that beginning Monday, December 3rd, traffic at California Avenue and Peterson Avenue will be reduced to one lane in each direction due to a sewer connection and restoration of the pavement at the intersection. Traffic will shift to the northbound lane to the east curb line and the southbound lane to the west curb line, as the work zone will be in the center of the roadway. This orientation will remain in place for about one week.

The following week traffic will shift to both the northbound lane and southbound lane to the center of the roadway, side by side, while the work zone will be on the outside lanes. This orientation will also last about one week.

Please see the attached exhibit for more clarification.

Temporary traffic configurations (PDF)

…

The Department of Water Management has begun installing new sewer pipes in W. Peterson Avenue, from North Shore Channel to N. Artesian Avenue, and in N. Fairfield Avenue, from W. Peterson Avenue to W. Devon Avenue.

The job is expected to be complete by mid to late December. Restoration of the damaged streets/parkways will be completed in late May 2013.

Peterson, North Shore Channel to Western – The east bound traffic lane will be closed, and one lane of traffic in each direction on the north side (west bound) of Peterson will be maintained.

Fairfield, Peterson to Devon – Fairfield will be closed to “through traffic” during working hours (7:00 am to 5:00 pm). Local traffic will be allowed at all times and one lane will be left open after working hours.

About the Fellowship Program:

• This is a stipend position.
• This is a full-time position and includes evenings and weekends.
• The position will be based out of the Commissioner Gainer’s County Building Office [City Hall] located at 118 N Clark St, Chicago IL.
• There will be travel throughout the city to attend meetings, seminars, or other events directly related to the Fellowship Program. Please note, the ideal candidate is comfortable riding and navigating public transportation. Any pre-approved fellowship related expenses will be reimbursed, including travel.
• This would be an ideal internship for candidates looking to work in public policy, political science, communications, or business.
• With proper notice and according to the requirements of your respective university, this internship may be eligible for college credit.
• The fellowship program is from June to August 2013. Please note, fellowship program is open to accommodate the fellow’s academic calendar.

If interested – please complete submit via e-mail a cover letter, resume and a short writing sample to:

Abin Kuriakose
Director of Community Affairs and Outreach
Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer – 10th District
abin@bridgetgainer.com

Night Out in the Parks brings more than 700 activities to neighborhood parks this summer, making community parks safe havens and hubs of activity.

Enjoy the breadth of world-class cultural programming offered in local parks as part of this exciting new program.

Join in on the fun!

Activities Include:

• Chicago Children’s Theatre
• Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks (in partnership with Chicago Shakespeare Theater)
• Circus in the Parks, featuring the Midnight Circus
• Collaboraction’s Crime Scene: Let Hope Rise
• Dance in the Parks
• Elastic Arts’ Culture Coach
• Eye on India Festival
• Grant Park Music Festival Choral Performances
• JazzCity, in partnership with the Jazz Institute of Chicago
• Juicebox series for children
• Movies in the Parks
• Paradis
• Redmoon’s The Elephant and the Whale
• Shall We Gather at the River, in partnership with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
• SummerDance in the Parks
• The Hypocrites R&J
• Theater on the Lake

Many of the events are offered in partnerships with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and local arts presenters.

View the Night Out in the Parks 2013 interactive map and schedule

Mayor Emanuel Announces “Night Out in the Parks” With More than 750 Citywide Activities and Peformances at Parks this Summer

Today Mayor Emanuel was joined by Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Commissioner Dr. Bechara Choucair to announce the expansion of a school-based vision program in CPS starting next week thanks to a $1 million investment made directly from the FY 2013 City Budget. With this program, 30,000 CPS students who failed vision screenings this year will have access to free vision exams and eyeglasses, if needed.

“A budget is a reflection of our city’s values and there is no better investment than one in the children of Chicago. Through this investment, we are more than tripling the number of CPS students who receive free eye exams, and providing glasses to those who need them,” said Mayor Emanuel. “Working in partnership with parents, we can ensure that our students have the tools they need to excel, including the quality vision care that gives them the ability to see the blackboard and also more clearly see the bright future that is ahead of them.”

Last year, 200,000 CPS students were provided vision screenings; 30,000 of these failed that screening and were recommended to receive a comprehensive vision exam. Due to either a lack of access, information or resources, most of these 30,000 students did not receive the necessary vision exam or fitting for glasses.

Through the 2013 City budget, the City is investing $1 million to close this gap of 30,000 students and establish a CDPH Vision Program to complement CPS’ existing vision program. Among all school-age children, seventeen to twenty-five percent have vision problems that are significant enough to impair their academic performance.

“Academic performance can improve when a student’s basic vision needs are addressed, and we are deeply committed to working with parents to ensure the health and wellness of our children,” said Dr. Bechara Choucair, CDPH Commissioner. “With this collaboration, we will continue working to make Chicago the healthiest city in the country.”

“Innovative services like this are another example of how we can make sure our students have the resources they need for success,” said Dr. Stephanie Whyte, Chief Health Officer for Chicago Public Schools. “Better vision can lead to better educational outcomes, so we’re happy to offer this program to our students.”

Through this collaboration between CDPH and CPS, which launches May 15, 2013, 9 additional doctors will begin providing school-based services and glasses fittings for students. School-based eye exams will continue through the end of the school year and then resume when school starts again in August.

# # #

Mayor’s Press Office 312.744.3334
Download this Press Release

On April 22 Jamieson Elementary School held a fun event with every student showing their appreciation for the Earth. To show their appreciation, students made pinwheels and planted them in front of our school garden where everyone could see how much of an effort we put in to show our respect for our Mother Earth. It was a lovely sight to see hundreds of pinwheels made by our students. Many people came by to look at our lovely garden.

It was also an honor to have Alderman Patrick O’Connor come and visit our school. For students, it was quite a big surprise to have our alderman come and celebrate this wonderful event with us in our small, friendly neighborhood. I’m sure this event will be embedded as part of our many memories.

Then it ended with a group picture with Alderman O’Connor and a group of second graders. It was a great day to say the least and it ended with great success. Jamieson is really proud to have shown such great spirit on Earth Day.

JUNE 23, 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

After a highly successful 2012, Artopia Festival is back for another
year to completely fill The Congress Theater with Art, Music, and culture.

The event will feature:

• Art displayed throughout the theater with over 100 artists showcasing and selling their work
• Live art stations
• Body painting and walking art pieces
• Live music performances on the main stage
• Top Chicago DJ’s including Video DJ’s spinning all night long
• An outdoor area with many hands on activities
• Live graffiti art by Hugo Style
• And much, much more!!!

artopiachicago.com

Please note that small dogs and cats may sometimes look like prey, so in addition to keeping pets leashed, residents are urged never to leave them unattended outside and to keep them indoors at night. It’s also a good idea to keep yards well-lit when letting pets out after dark.

Additional coyote information and news:

• Wikipedia: Coyote
• Urban Coyote Ecology and Management study conducted in Cook County by Ohio State University
• Coyote spotted near Berger Park
• Residents Warned of Beach Coyote Sightings

The Chicago Center for Green Technology’s Green Tech U Program has been developed in response to the increasing demand for educational opportunities regarding green technology and sustainability.

Whether you’re a homeowner or practicing professional, Green Tech U’s workshops and seminars provide you with the opportunity to increase your knowledge of green technology, sustainability and public policy, meet people with similar interests, and expand your personal and professional networks.

Visit chicagogreentech.org for more information and to view the full Winter/Spring 2012 calendar of events and workshops.

Please remain alert to your surroundings at all times. The prevalence of smartphones has contributed to our collective preoccupation while in public places. Take steps to ensure that you’re not leaving yourself open to theft or attack.

Additional information:

• Chicago Criminal Law Blog, May 7, 2013: What to do when your smartphone gets snatched
• Chicago Sun-Times, May 4, 2013: New efforts to curb cellphone theft
• CBSNews, Sept. 12, 2012: iPhone related crime on the rise as smartphones gain popularity

Mayor Rahm Emanuel today announced that he, along with the City of Chicago’s finance and legal teams and Chicago Parking Meters (CPM) has settled the outstanding legal disputes associated with the parking meter contract, and have negotiated improvements that benefit Chicagoans. The proposed changes will provide for free parking in Chicago neighborhoods on Sundays and will introduce a pay-by-cell option that will provide convenience for parkers choosing to use it. The settlement of outstanding legal disputes will eliminate more than $1 billion of estimated additional charges over the life of the contract.

“When I was elected Mayor, I said this was a bad deal, but promised to do everything I could to make improvements on behalf of the taxpayers of this city,” said Mayor Emanuel. “So, my administration fought to ensure not one tax dollar was paid that we didn’t need to pay. After thorough and ultimately constructive negotiations, I am proud to say that on behalf of the taxpayers of Chicago, we were able to successfully reach agreement with CPM to make some necessary and positive changes to this contract.”

CPM reached out to the City and expressed its shared interest in resolving the outstanding legal disputes. The City welcomed CPM’s willingness to address key areas of concern and work constructively toward a positive solution for Chicago taxpayers. While accepting the contract as binding, both sides worked together on important adjustments that, if approved by the City Council, make important improvements for Chicagoans.

The proposed settlement agreement reached between the City and CPM and the proposed amendment to the parking meter contract will be introduced to City Council on May 8, 2013 for its thorough review. In contrast to the original deal, which allowed for just three days of review, the City Council will have 30 days to review the proposed agreement and amendment.

These revisions were the result of Mayor Emanuel’s directive to his financial, technology and legal teams to obtain the tools and strategic positioning necessary to effectively manage the contract. Corporation Counsel Steve Patton, Chief Financial Officer Lois Scott, Deputy Mayor Steve Koch, Commissioner of the Department of Innovation and Technology Brett Goldstein, Vice Chairman of World Business Chicago Michael Sacks, were heavily involved in the effort.

The resulting dispute resolution and agreements include three important changes to the current parking-meter construct:

Taxpayers Will See $1 Billion Less in Charges

CPM would release more than $1 billion in estimated future charges to the City. The City received invoices totaling $49 million for the two-year period ending March 31, 2013. As part of the settlement, the City would pay $8.9 million for those two years, in line with its accounting of the amounts due to CPM under the original contract. These amounts were contemplated by the original transaction to compensate either the City or CPM for the City closing or adding parking spaces or changing periods of stay, hours of operation or parking rates. The $40 million difference between what was invoiced and what would be paid under this agreement represents over $1 billion in estimated future charges in today’s dollars to the City over the life of the contract that will no longer be payable.

Thanks to Mayor Emanuel’s directive to his financial and legal team, the City is now in position to access, control and process the data necessary for determining amounts due to or from the City under the contract. Previously, CPM had been performing its own calculations and submitting them to the City for review. Going forward, the City will perform the calculations and present them to CPM.

Free Sundays
Metered parking spaces in Chicago neighborhoods will now be free on Sundays. This will provide a much-needed benefit to people attending religious services and to those enjoying all that our neighborhoods have to offer on Sundays. Neighborhoods affected are those south of Roosevelt, west of Halsted and north of North Avenue. Free Sundays are expected to go into effect by the end of summer 2013.

Convenient Pay-By-Cell Option
CPM will introduce a new pay-by-cell convenience option. This new feature will eliminate the need for parkers to visit the pay box, print a parking receipt and then place the receipt in their windshields. Instead, parkers will be able to simply enter a pay box number visibly posted on street signage into a cellular phone application without the need for a receipt. Parkers choosing to pay-by-cell will see a convenience charge of .35 cents applied to purchases of less than two hours at one time. Their phones will operate as their payment method and individuals can create an account with an initial balance of $20. The pay-by-cell option will be available by the summer of 2014.

Parking Hour Extensions
In connection with the agreement, the City has agreed to extend metered parking by one hour for all blocks where metered parking currently ends at 9:00pm (from 9:00pm to 10:00pm). The area bordered by the Chicago River to the South, the lake to the East, Division Street to the North and the Chicago River to the West will extend meter times by three hours (from 9:00pm to Midnight.) Residential streets where meters currently run until 6:00pm will not see their hours of operation extended.

“These changes provide relief on Sundays in Chicago’s neighborhoods, some convenience for those that choose to use it and significant savings for taxpayers,” said Mayor Emanuel. “While we cannot turn back the clock and undo the parking meter deal, we have shown we can improve it and can certainly learn from it.”

In addition to these three major points, the settlement agreement and amendment provide for numerous measures designed to improve the dispute process and improve communications and operations between the City and CPM going forward.

With respect to the EPAEL, or the disabled placard use dispute, an arbitration panel in In the Matter of the Arbitration between Chicago Parking Meters, LLC and City of Chicago, made findings in favor of both the City and CPM on various issues. In accordance with the arbitrator’s findings bound the City to pay CPM $12 million to close that dispute and will pay an additional $42.9 million of outstanding EPAEL claims from the past two years.

# # #

Mayor’s Press Office 312.744.3334
Download this Press Release